Lunar Way-station (Moon-Mars Workshop in conjunction with the Planetary Society)

Paper number

IAC-08.A5.1.2

Author

Mr. Satinder Shergill, Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, United Kingdom

Coauthor

Ms. Timea Csengeri, Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary

Coauthor

Mr. Satinder Shergill, Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, United Kingdom

Coauthor

Mr. Neeraj Kohli, Accenture Services Pvt. Ltd., India

Coauthor

Mr. Ashish Sharma, Arizona State University, United States

Year

2008

Abstract

A Lunar Way-station is a test bed for operational aspects of a planetary outpost, defined here as a base on the surface of a planetary body. This paper aims to establish and determine an architecture for future strategic navigation system, common geodetic net, timeframe and landing sites on Moon with a view to promote international cooperation for lunar exploration. This study is being carried out within the framework of current projects of the Space Generation Advisory Council.

The authors have considered a two-layered system for tracking and navigation purposes i.e. primary layer for basic communication and secondary layer as a back-up system. In order to achieve synergy between Earth-based mission control and the Lunar Way-station, a 24 hour based timeframe has been initially selected which equals GMT and is referred to as the Standard Global Lunar Time. Several international landing sites have been discussed according to different mission priorities and presented alongside their benefits and limitations. The paper addresses criteria that would be applicable to the different scenarios. In addition the authors have tried to identify some possible landing technologies already used on Earth. In-situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) and Self-sustainable environmental management systems (including planetary protection regulations) have been identified as essential, for the Lunar Way-station to function as a true 'planetary outpost-test bed'. 

With international cooperation with other lunar missions and projects, help of emerging technologies, involvement of private sector, universities and agencies, the dream of a Lunar Way-station could become a reality. If so, it would prove to be a boon for future planetary exploration and Human Spaceflight. The Moon provides a potential place for study and analysis of sample return missions from anywhere in the Solar System, which could also include a quarantine period before returning to the Earth.

Abstract document

IAC-08.A5.1.2.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.A5.1.2.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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